In a statement released on the 23rd of October, the US embassy in Nigeria warned its officials of an elevated risk of terror attacks in the country’s capital.
There is an elevated risk of terror attacks in Nigeria, specifically in Abuja. Targets may include, but are not limited to, government buildings, places of worship, schools, markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars, restaurants, athletic gatherings, transport terminals, law enforcement facilities, and international organizations. The U.S. Embassy will offer reduced services until further notice.
A number of US embassy staff and American citizens were captured leaving Nigeria which brought more attention to the situation on social media. Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) released a statement calling for Nigerians to remain calm amid the debacle.
“The service calls for calm as it works with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to maintain peace and order in and beyond Abuja.”
Nigerian Department of State Services
Lai Mohammed, Nigeria’s infamous Minister of Information, complained that US embassy’s statement and actions merely created “panic.”
“I can assure all that our military and other security agencies have continued to do everything possible to secure and protect Nigerians and foreigners living in Nigeria,”
Lai Mohammed
The US embassy in South Africa also released a similar statement
